Paula Swepson Avery and Dayna Reggero - The Power of Community

05/13/25 • 35 min

Dayna Reggero has been a guest before on Most Memorable Journeys. She is a big supporter of community and has introduced me to Paula. She is joining the episode for support and more insights.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative journey of Paula Swepson-Avery, a woman whose career shift from manufacturing to community-driven leadership has had a profound impact on her hometown of West Marion, North Carolina.

After spending decades working for Broyhill Furniture and rising through the ranks, Paula faced layoffs that ultimately nudged her into a new professional direction. In 2016, she became involved with the West Marion Community Forum, a group focused on improving local life through collaboration and community engagement. From co-chair to executive director, Paula has helped spearhead initiatives that address critical issues like public transportation, affordable housing, youth empowerment, and food security.

Under her leadership, the Forum has created a free public transportation system for the area, organized youth programs, and provided hundreds of meals to those in need. Paula shares her personal growth from a manager to a leader, learning the importance of flexibility, collaboration, and empowering others along the way.

This episode explores Paula’s inspiring story, leadership insights, and the power of community action. Tune in for a look at how one individual can spark change and build stronger, more connected communities.

Dayna Reggero has been a guest before on Most Memorable Journeys. She is a big supporter of community and has introduced me to Paula. She is joining the episode for support and more insights.

Previous Episode

Rosamaria Mancini - She accompanied the Pope to the Holy Land

Rosamaria is the author of the book SOS Podcasts. In the book she

tells her unique story of being a woman, wife, and mother living abroad. A self described “big pain,” hypochondriac, and perfectionist, she details her quirks and how they were exacerbated during her time in both Italy and Germany, and how she turned to podcasts to feel less alone and more connected. In a refreshingly original, funny, assertive, and honest voice she lays it all out – from her tendency toward hyper protective parenting and Catholic guilt to her opinions on air conditioning, military wives, German food, and turning the big 4-0.

Apart from being a writer Rosamaria Mancini is also a professor, and public relations and media manager based in Germany. She has worked for numerous news organizations including the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times where she wrote feature stories. She also spent a few years working in communications for the Vatican where she had the opportunity to accompany the Pope to the Holy Land. She recently earned her PhD in creative writing. She works for Fairtrade International and teaches communications at the Brussels School of Governance and UMGC Europe.

She lives in the tri-border area between Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium with her husband and two children.

https://www.amazon.com/SOS-Podcasts-Rosamaria-Mancini/dp/1738423166

https://rosamariamancini.com/

Next Episode

Hélène Alexi Ioannides - Unlocking Authenticity and Empowerment

In this inspiring episode, we are joined by Hélène Alexi Ioannides, a globally recognized Systemic Therapist, Leadership & Authenticity Coach, and Sound Healer. Known for her heart-centered yet fierce approach to transformation, Hélène has helped countless individuals reconnect with their truth and reclaim their personal power.

With a diverse international background, Hélène has lived in multiple countries, including Italy, Saudi Arabia, Cyprus, and the UK. She shares how her experiences in these places have shaped her life and career, with Italy standing out as her favorite country—a place that has deeply influenced her both personally and professionally.

Through her powerful methodology, the Authentic Empowerment Blueprint (AEB), Hélène empowers women to break free from generational patterns, embody their truth, and step into their full potential. Her approach integrates emotional intelligence, body-mind integration, and spiritual depth, fostering profound and lasting change.

As the founder of Empowered New You and host of the Health Pod podcast, Hélène has impacted thousands through her online programs, workshops, and retreats. She was recently awarded Best Health Coach & Wellness Influencer of the Year in the Middle East, a recognition of her transformative work.

Join us as we dive into Hélène’s journey of rising from emotional struggle to radical self-acceptance, her mission to help people embrace their truth with confidence, and her insights on creating authentic leadership and empowerment in our lives.

https://www.instagram.com/iamhelenealexiioannides/